Create the same iron used in the Japanese blades of legend!
Tataranosato, located in the idillyc region of Okuizumo, echoes centuries of Japanese history and folklore.
In this tour, we engage in hands-on iron-making, join shrine ceremonies, visit historical museums, and witness the legendary slaying of Yamata-no-Orochi through the traditional "Izumo-kagura" play.
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Tatara iron-making is Japan's distinctive method of iron-making, a craft meticulously preserved in Oku-izumo for over 1,300 years. This technique produced iron that was particularly well-suited for crafting the legendary blades of the samurai era. The tradition embodies a profound essence of the Japanese spirit.
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The unique Japanese tatara iron, which cannot be replicated by modern steel production, was a cornerstone of Japanese daily life. The properties of the central part of the bloom, called 'tamahagane' (玉鋼), were key to the versatility and sharpness of traditional Japanese swords.
In order to stay true to the values of living sustainably and in harmony with nature, and further share those values beyond our village, we decided to hold the international TATARABUKI iron-making by the Tanabe Family tour.
The many activities are bound to deepen your understanding of Japan, a rare opportunity to experience Japanese tradition hands-on!
Participate in iron-making, join a shrine ceremony and visit history museums, and witness Izumo - kagura—a traditional play of the legendary slaying of Yamata-no-Orochi by the god Susano-o.
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Pick-up Yasugi City
Wakou Museum
14:00-15:15
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The biggest history museum on the golden age of iron of Japan, this museum offers background on the history and cultural relevance of tatara.
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Visit to Kanayago Shrine
16:00-16:45
The Kanayago Shrine serves as a spiritual cornerstone to the Tatara iron-making tradition for centuries. Dedicated to metallurgy deities, this shrine burned down several times along the ages. Its current structure was built using a resistant, heavy wood called Keyaki (Zelkova serrata), rarely used for temples, which gives its interior a unique warm color and feel.
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First night at the Izumo-Yumura Onsen Seiranso Hotel
17:30-
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The Izumo Yumura Onsen Seiran-so is a Japanese ryokan-style hotel located at a 1300-year old hot spring. Includes a delicious dinner course and free access to the hot springs.
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Departure from Seiran-so Hotel to Yoshida-cho
Tatara iron-making: Opening ceremony
9:00～10:00
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The ceremony unfolds as the furnace is kindled by the sacred flame bestowed by the revered Izumo Taisha, the Grand Shrine of Izumo.
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Visit to the Tanabe Family Mansion
10:30～11:30
The Tanabe family began Tatara iron-making at this location in 1460. The family residence and storehouses still stand today. Rarely open to the public, we are offered a rare guided visit to the grounds.
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Visit to the Iron History Village Museum.
11:30～12:30
Themed around Tatara iron-making, this museum exhibits materials related to the history, techniques, tools, and the life of the blacksmiths. In the museum you can understand the minor details of the tatara system, such as the underground vents and layers essential to producing the iron and steel used in the katanas back in the day.
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Exploring the Sugaya Tatara-sannai
13:30～14:30
The Sugaya-sannai encompasses the living and working quarters of those involved in Tatara iron manufacturing. Preserving the historical ambience, this is the sole remaining tatara iron-making house in its original form. It is said that Sugaya Tatara-sannnai is the inspiration for the iron-making house in the renowned Ghibli film Princess Mononoke.
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Tatara iron-making : 籠り期 (Incubation phase)
15:00～18:00
After witnessing the sacred flame ceremony and exploring historical sites, let's delve into the realm of tatara iron-making. Roll up your sleeves alongside tatara artisans and technicians, actively participating in tasks like pouring charcoal and ironsand, as well as clearing and transporting the molten slag.
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Second night at the Seiran-so Hotel
18:30～
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Departure from Seiran-so Hotel to Yoshida-cho
Tatara iron-making:
鉧出し (Bloom Harvesting)9:30～11:00
As morning arrives, a selected few receive the training and are prepared for the most intense and dangerous task: the bloom extraction. Upon lifting the furnace, an incandescent chunk of iron and slag is revealed. The last task consists of removing the molten slag as it flows down the pile, throwing sparks and flames in all directions.
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Izumo-Kagura Performance and Visit to Suga Shrine
13:00～14:00
After learning about the connections between folklore and the golden age of iron, we witness a folk tale firsthand — the story of Susano-o, who tricks and battles Yamata-no-Orochi to protect Kushinada-hime. Surrounded by Japanese traditional musicians who set the mood, and skilled actors pouring their heart and soul into an intense, fast-paced dance. After experiencing the tale, we walk to the Suga Shrine, which stands on the same ground as Susano-o's chosen residence upon marrying Kushinada-hime.
